Sold-out audience enjoys show

September 04, 2008

By Melissa Ehrenlenbusch Special to the American News Whether you are a Lutheran, Protestant, Baptist, Methodist or Catholic, the musical comedy of “Church Basement Ladies” brings the lives of many to the stage. You may even get a glimpse of yourself during this production, or someone that strongly resembles you, as this church basement resembles so many across America. The production is based on the book “Growing Up Lutheran,” written by Janet Martin and Suzann Nelson. Jessica Zuehlke and Jim Stowell put their talent to work when they wrote the script for “Church Basement Ladies." The music and lyrics are by composer Drew Jansen. The production is under the direction of Curt Wollan. The setting is in a fictitious Minnesota town in 1964. Four ever-devoted church ladies share their relationships and try to cope with the changes their church is undergoing. At the same time, they keep their pastor on the straight-and-narrow as they prepare food for fellow parishioners. These four ladies, along with their pastor E.L. Gunderson (played by William Christopher of M*A*S*H* fame), give us the tools to laugh at ourselves and our misgivings as their story is being told. The talented actors try to help others realize they're not alone, struggling down life's highway. Mrs. Lars 'Vivian' Snustad (played by Jean Liuzzi) is the leader of this kitchen pact. She helps direct the kitchen and shares her wisdom, wanted or not. Mrs. Elroy 'Karin' Engelson (played by Margaret Curry) along with her daughter Signe (played by Stella Fasanello), work diligently side by side, helping to guide Signe down the road of life. Mrs. Gilmer 'Mavis' Gilmerson (played by Karen Pappas) is the historian of the group. She recalls rumored details of the lives of the many people in the community. Gunderson is the foundation of the church, and the ladies in the church basement are the mortar that holds the foundation together. M*A*S*H* lovers can even get a glimpse of Father Mulcahy in this production. The sold-out audience enjoyed the many songs and stories through laughter and tears, Songs such as “Closer to Heaven”, “Song for Willie” and my favorite, “My Own Personal Island”, will forever be remembered as church ladies everywhere reminisce about their lives, struggle with church changes and prepare the “dead spread” for many in years to come. Hurry. This must-see production is selling out fast.